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Baked Crab Pasta

Creamy Baked Crab Pasta for Ultimate Comfort Food Bliss

Baked Crab Pasta is a delicious comfort food that combines creamy textures and succulent crab meat, making it a standout dish for any occasion.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Resting Time 3 minutes
Total Time 38 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: American
Calories: 480

Ingredients
  

For the Casserole
  • 16 oz Barilla Penne Any short pasta may work, but adjust cooking time as needed.
  • 16 oz Crab Meat Preferably lump style; claw meat is a budget-friendly option.
  • 14 oz Sour Cream Use Daisy brand for optimal consistency.
  • 1 Bell Pepper Diced for sweetness and vibrant color.
  • 1 Onion Diced to enhance flavor.
  • 4 tbsp Butter Kerrygold, unsalted. Olive oil can be used for a lighter option.
  • 3/4 tsp Oregano
  • 3/4 tsp Garlic Powder
  • 1/2 tsp Salt Adjust to taste.
  • 1/2 tsp Pepper
  • 1/4 tsp Smoked Paprika For subtle smokiness.
  • 4 oz Swiss Cheese Grated fresh for a melty topping.
  • 4 oz Cheddar Cheese Grated fresh for additional flavor and creaminess.
  • Green Onion For garnish.

Equipment

  • large pot
  • Colander
  • large skillet
  • mixing bowl
  • Baking dish

Method
 

Step-by-Step Instructions
  1. Begin by preparing your ingredients for the Baked Crab Pasta. Dice the onion and bell pepper into small, uniform pieces for even cooking. Next, grate both the Swiss and cheddar cheese.
  2. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the Barilla Penne pasta. Cook until al dente, about 2 minutes less than package instructions, then drain thoroughly.
  3. Heat butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, and sauté for 5–7 minutes until soft and translucent.
  4. Add oregano, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and smoked paprika to the sautéed vegetables. Stir and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.
  5. In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the drained pasta, sautéed vegetables, crab meat, and sour cream. Mix carefully to avoid breaking apart the crab meat.
  6. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and transfer the mixture into a greased 9x13 inch baking dish. Spread evenly and sprinkle the grated Swiss and cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese melts and turns light golden color.
  8. After baking, let the casserole rest for 2–3 minutes to set slightly. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top before serving.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 480kcalCarbohydrates: 45gProtein: 28gFat: 22gSaturated Fat: 12gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 5gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 790mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 3gSugar: 3gVitamin A: 15IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 10mg

Notes

Allow the casserole to sit for 5–10 minutes after baking for easier serving. Customize with your favorite vegetables or cheeses but keep moisture levels in mind.

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